Turkey sliders are a perfect choice when you’re looking for a delicious, satisfying meal or snack that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. These mini sandwiches pack a punch of flavor in every bite, making them ideal for game days, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. With this turkey sliders recipe, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that offers the best combination of juicy turkey, melted cheese, and savory seasonings, all nestled in soft, buttery slider buns.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Turkey Sliders Recipe
To make the best turkey sliders, you’ll need a selection of fresh ingredients that elevate the flavor of the turkey and create a well-balanced, delicious sandwich. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 12 slider buns or dinner rolls
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Toppings and Extras
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Pickles
- Sliced onions
- Extra cheese slices
How to Make Turkey Sliders Recipe
1. Prepare the Turkey Mixture
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, cooked onions and garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly, but be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the patties tough. Shape the turkey mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter, so they fit perfectly on the slider buns.
2. Cook the Turkey Patties
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the turkey patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re adding cheese, place a slice of cheddar on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt.
For an extra layer of flavor, you can also toast the slider buns in the same skillet or on the grill for about 1-2 minutes, until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
3. Assemble the Sliders
While the turkey patties are cooking, prepare the sauce by mixing the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Spread a generous amount of this sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun.
Place a turkey patty on top of the sauce, then add your choice of toppings: fresh lettuce, a slice of tomato, pickles, and sliced onions all work beautifully to complement the flavors of the turkey.
Top with the other half of the bun, and if you want to add an extra layer of indulgence, brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
4. Bake the Sliders
To ensure the buns are warm and buttery and the flavors meld perfectly, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled turkey sliders on a baking sheet, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 10 minutes. This extra step allows the sliders to heat evenly and the buns to absorb the flavors of the turkey and sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, your turkey sliders are ready to be devoured. Serve them hot, with a side of potato chips, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. These sliders are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why Turkey Sliders Are a Perfect Party Dish
Turkey sliders are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can prepare them ahead of time and bake just before serving, making them a go-to option for busy hosts. They’re great for large gatherings because they are simple to eat, and you can easily scale up the recipe to feed a crowd.
These bite-sized sandwiches are also healthier than their beef counterparts, thanks to the lean nature of ground turkey. With the right seasonings and toppings, turkey sliders offer a lighter but equally satisfying alternative to traditional sliders, without sacrificing flavor.
Customize Your Turkey Sliders
One of the best things about this turkey sliders recipe is that you can customize it to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas for taking your sliders to the next level:
- BBQ Turkey Sliders: Mix in a tablespoon of BBQ sauce into the turkey mixture, or drizzle it over the top of the patties before serving for a smoky, sweet twist.
- Spicy Turkey Sliders: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the turkey mixture for a little heat. You can also top the sliders with spicy pickles or jalapeños.
- Italian-Style Sliders: Add Italian seasonings like oregano and basil to the turkey patties, and top them with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
Healthy Alternatives for Turkey Sliders Recipe
For those looking to make these sliders even healthier, here are a few ingredient swaps that won’t compromise on flavor:
- Whole Wheat Buns: Opt for whole wheat slider buns to add fiber and nutrients to the dish.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat cheddar or skip the cheese altogether if you’re watching your calorie intake.
- Lettuce Wraps: If you’re cutting back on carbs, replace the buns with large lettuce leaves for a lighter, keto-friendly option.
How to Store and Reheat Turkey Sliders
If you have any leftover sliders, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through.
If you’re planning to make the sliders ahead of time, you can cook the turkey patties in advance and assemble the sandwiches just before baking. This allows you to prepare everything without sacrificing freshness or flavor.
Conclusion
With their juicy, flavorful turkey patties, soft slider buns, and endless customization options, these turkey sliders are sure to become a favorite in your household. They are simple to make, perfect for entertaining, and can be tailored to suit a variety of tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this turkey sliders recipe has got you covered. Enjoy the delicious, savory flavors, and don’t be surprised when these sliders disappear as quickly as you serve them!